Nautilus International is an independent, influential, global trade union and professional organisation, committed to delivering high quality, cost-effective services to members, and welfare support to necessitous seafarers, their dependants and other maritime professionals.

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Nautilus official awarded Merchant Navy Medal

Nautilus International senior national secretary Allan Graveson is one of this year's recipients of the prestigious Merchant Navy Medal, the government has announced.

Mr Graveson, a former seafarer who works in the Union's professional and technical department, receives the award for services to seafarer training, welfare and safety.

This came as a complete surprise, and I appreciate it must have taken a great deal of effort to ensure complete secrecy. Endorsement by one's peers makes this rather special – a sincere thank you. The work continues for those at sea.
Allan Graveson

Now in its second year, the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service is awarded to those who are serving or have served in the Merchant Navy and fishing fleets of the UK, Isle of Man or Channel Islands. The state award is handed out for exemplary service and devotion to duty, rewarding those who have set an outstanding example to others.

Announcing the awards, shipping minister John Hayes said: 'Merchant Navy seafarers and those serving in the fishing fleets provide an invaluable service to our island nation, often in difficult and dangerous conditions.

'Just a week after we mark Merchant Navy Day and remember the sacrifices of the seafarers of the past, this award provides the opportunity to proudly show our appreciation for British shipping today and in the future.'

This year's winners – who will receive their awards at a ceremony later this year – are:

Mr Andrew Armstrong, for services to seafarer training

Mr Anthony Cash, for services to seafarer welfare and the Merchant Navy Association

Captain Stephen Clinch, for services to the safety of ships and seafarers

Captain Geoffrey Cowap, for services to the careers of young seafarers

Mr Patrick Dolby, for services to international ship safety standards and seafarer welfare